A typology and ecological classification system for Finnish lakes: applicability of the ECOFRAME scheme

Abstract

A pan-European typology and ecological classification system for shallow lakes was developed by the EU-funded project ECOFRAME. Here, we tested how the ECOFRAME typology separates Finnish lakes. Without accounting for division by depth, six different ecotypes resulted, one of which included the majority of the lakes. Subdivision of typology appears necessary, especially for organic types. We also collected data on a set of lakes that were extensively studied for their chemical and biological elements and classified the lakes according to the ECOFRAME classification scheme. In general, the achieved ecological quality status for each lake was less favourable than we had expected. Inspection of individual variables used in the classification highlighted some characteristics of Finnish lakes that need to be addressed in the scheme. Macrophyte variables especially need revision to better reflect the state of Finland's humic waters. However, many of the ECOFRAME solutions and guidelines were directly applicable.